Top UK Certifications for Advancing Your IT Career

In today’s competitive tech landscape, certifications are more valuable than ever. They validate your skills, keep you current with new developments, and make you more marketable to employers.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or considering a career change into IT, certifications can give you the edge you need to progress.

In the UK, numerous certifications are respected across industries, and they cater to a variety of specialisations, from cybersecurity to cloud computing.

Here’s a look at some of the top IT certifications that can help elevate your career.

1. CompTIA A+

Best for: Entry-Level IT Professionals

CompTIA A+ is an ideal starting point for those beginning their IT careers. It covers foundational knowledge across hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting. Recognised globally, CompTIA A+ is valued for preparing candidates to handle day-to-day technical issues and is a gateway to more advanced certifications.

Prerequisites: None

Exam Format: Two parts (Core 1 and Core 2)

Validity: Valid for three years, with options for renewal

Average Salary Potential: £25,000 – £30,000 for entry-level positions

This certification is widely recognised and respected by employers, making it essential for anyone looking to break into IT support roles.

2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Best for: Beginners to Cloud Computing

With the growing demand for cloud computing skills, Microsoft’s Azure Fundamentals certification is a valuable entry point into cloud technology. This certification demonstrates your understanding of the core Azure services, cloud concepts, security, compliance, and Azure pricing. It’s ideal for anyone interested in cloud computing, especially in environments that use Microsoft products.

Prerequisites: None

Exam Format: Single exam (AZ-900)

Validity: No expiration

Average Salary Potential: £30,000 – £35,000 for entry-level cloud positions

Azure Fundamentals is perfect for IT professionals or recent graduates looking to add cloud computing basics to their skill set.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Best for: Network Engineers, IT Technicians

Cisco’s CCNA certification is a highly regarded credential for network professionals. Covering networking fundamentals, security basics, and automation, this certification is ideal for those looking to move into network engineering or network administration.

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of networking

Exam Format: Single comprehensive exam

Validity: Valid for three years, renewal required

Average Salary Potential: £35,000 – £45,000 for networking roles

Achieving a CCNA certification demonstrates proficiency in networking and opens doors to roles in networking and IT infrastructure.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Best for: Cybersecurity Professionals, IT Managers

The CISSP is a prestigious certification recognised globally in the cybersecurity sector. It’s aimed at experienced IT professionals who want to validate their ability to design, implement, and manage a cybersecurity program. Covering areas such as security operations, risk management, and asset security, CISSP is essential for those looking to lead in cybersecurity.

Prerequisites: Five years of experience in two or more CISSP domains, or equivalent educational waiver

Exam Format: One exam

Validity: Valid for three years, with options for Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits for renewal

Average Salary Potential: £70,000 – £90,000 for senior cybersecurity roles

CISSP certification can be a career game-changer, especially for those aiming for senior positions in cybersecurity.

5. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

Best for: Aspiring Cloud Architects, DevOps Engineers

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is ideal for professionals wanting to validate their skills in designing and deploying scalable systems on AWS. Covering cloud fundamentals, cost management, and security, this certification is widely sought by employers looking to expand their cloud capabilities.

Prerequisites: One year of experience with AWS recommended

Exam Format: Single exam

Validity: Valid for three years, renewal required

Average Salary Potential: £50,000 – £70,000 for cloud architecture roles

As AWS dominates the cloud market, this certification provides a solid advantage for anyone looking to establish a career in cloud computing.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP) by PMI

Best for: IT Project Managers

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification by the Project Management Institute (PMI) is internationally recognised and highly regarded in the IT sector. It validates your skills in project management, from planning and execution to risk management and budgeting.

Prerequisites: Minimum three years of project management experience, plus 35 hours of project management education

Exam Format: One exam

Validity: Valid for three years, requires CPE credits for renewal

Average Salary Potential: £55,000 – £75,000 for IT project management roles

PMP certification is beneficial for IT professionals aiming for management roles and demonstrates expertise in leading and directing IT projects.

7. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)

Best for: Software Developers, IT Managers, Scrum Masters

Agile methodologies are crucial for organisations that prioritise flexibility and adaptability. The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification is ideal for those managing or working on Agile projects. CSM equips professionals with an understanding of Scrum, helping them lead teams effectively in Agile environments.

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of Scrum; completion of a Scrum Alliance-approved course

Exam Format: Single exam following training

Validity: Valid for two years, requires renewal through CPE credits

Average Salary Potential: £40,000 – £60,000 for Scrum Master roles

CSM is an excellent addition to the toolkit of any software professional, especially those involved in Agile project management.

8. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Best for: Aspiring Ethical Hackers, Cybersecurity Analysts

As cybersecurity becomes increasingly vital, the demand for ethical hackers who can anticipate security threats is on the rise. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification equips you with the skills needed to think like a hacker and protect organisational systems proactively.

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of networking and security, plus completion of an EC-Council approved course

Exam Format: Single exam

Validity: Valid for three years, with renewal options

Average Salary Potential: £50,000 – £70,000 for ethical hacking roles

CEH certification provides a competitive advantage for those looking to specialise in ethical hacking and cybersecurity.

9. Google Certified Professional Data Engineer

Best for: Data Engineers, Analytics Professionals

With the rapid growth of big data, the Google Certified Professional Data Engineer certification is perfect for those in data-related roles. This certification demonstrates the ability to design, build, and maintain data processing systems and is highly sought after by employers in data-driven industries.

Prerequisites: Recommended experience with Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

Exam Format: Single exam

Validity: Valid for two years, renewal required

Average Salary Potential: £55,000 – £80,000 for data engineering roles

This certification is ideal for professionals aiming to work with data on Google Cloud and is especially beneficial in sectors prioritising data analytics.

10. ITIL Foundation Certification

Best for: IT Service Managers, Business Analysts

The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification is an industry-standard for IT service management. The ITIL Foundation certification covers the basics of the ITIL framework, focusing on improving service delivery and aligning IT services with business objectives.

Prerequisites: None

Exam Format: Single exam

Validity: No expiration

Average Salary Potential: £35,000 – £50,000 for IT service management roles

ITIL certification is essential for professionals in IT service management and is ideal for those looking to advance in roles involving IT governance.

Making the Right Choice for Your IT Career

Selecting the right certification depends on your career goals, experience level, and the specific skills you want to develop. Each of these certifications offers a unique pathway to build or expand your expertise, allowing you to stand out in the job market. Moreover, certifications often come with a network of resources, training opportunities, and industry connections that can enhance your professional journey.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At Ernest Gordon Recruitment, we understand that advancing in IT requires dedication, the right skills, and sometimes a little guidance. Whether you’re seeking a new role or looking to elevate your current one, we specialise in connecting IT professionals with the right opportunities. Our team of recruitment specialists can help you find the perfect position to leverage your certifications and take your career to new heights.

Let us help you reach your career goals. Contact Ernest Gordon Recruitment today to discover your next opportunity.